New Orleans’ Top 100+ Bars: Arcade Drinking

Barcadia
Your inner video game nerd will thank you as you gleefully ping-pong from Ghosts 'N Goblins to Mortal Kombat at this arcade for grown-ups. Whether you prefer classics like Pac-Man or Dolly Parton-themed pinball or Pop-A-Shot basketball, there are plenty of platforms for passing time with a beer, of which there are a few dozen on tap and dozens more in the bottle. It's happy hour all night on Tuesdays. 601 Tchoupitoulas St., (504) 335-1740; www.barcadianeworleans.com, @barcadianola

Carrollton Station
Want some quiet time with just you, a stool and Ms. Pac-Man? This is your place. College kids and neighbors tend to avoid the gaming cabinet, so settle onto your stool next to video poker machines with a $3 Stella Artois on Mondays and play until your thumbs bleed. There's also frequent $2 beer specials, live music and stand-up comedy (9 p.m. Wednesdays). Keep another stack of quarters handy for Space Invaders. 8140 Willow St., (504) 865-9190; www.carrolltonstation.com

Mick's Irish Pub
Behind its divey facade with a jukebox and pool table, this Irish Mid-City neighborhood staple houses a den-like game room with several arcade cabinets and pinball machines, as well as ping pong and darts. 4801 Bienville St., (504) 482-9113

Pal's Lounge
While an air hockey table tucked in the back room is a draw at this Bayou St. John staple, the AC/DC pinball machine is the bar's secret weapon — that is if you can cut Angus Young sneering at you through the glass. If not, there's always the house special gingerita, a spicy ginger margarita, and frequent pop-ups, like meatball aficionados Stickball. 949 N. Rendon St., (504) 488-7257; www.palslounge.com; @palslounge

Shamrock
Not just an adults-only Dave & Busters, this Mid-City mammoth (which boasts that it is the biggest neighborhood bar in the city or "possibly the world") has more than 20 pool tables, as well as miniature bowling lanes and even a punching bag, among its treasure trove of arcade games and designated drinking game areas. 4133 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 301-0938; www.shamrockparty.com